1. Create a New Slide

I started by inserting a new blank slide. Then I copied all the text and graphics from my slider interaction onto my new slide.

Next, I made the two rectangles the same size, so the learner couldn’t figure out where each step went based simply on the shape.

2. Insert Drop Targets

I then created drop targets, or the zones where learners will drop their answers, using shapes. I used the same fill color as the background and a dashed outline to signify that they are incomplete.

3. Add Draggable Objects

Next I turned the labels into draggable objects. I moved the text boxes to the bottom and centered them. I didn’t care that they were overlapping because I planned to have them appear sequentially (I’ll show how later on).

Then I added the corresponding image to the normal state of the text box so that the image and text would act as a single object. For more on this technique, check out this article: The Ultimate Guide to Buttons in Storyline 2.

Then I added some drop states, so learners can easily see whether they’ve placed the object in the right spot.

Tip: To make the next step even easier, name your drop zones and draggable objects. For example: Drag-1, Drop-1, Drag-2, Drop-2. That way you’ll be able to easily identify which two go together.

4. Convert to Freeform

Once my exercise was ready from a visual standpoint, I brought it to life by clicking the Convert to Freeform button and choosing Drag-and-Drop.

Then I matched up the drag items on the left with the drop zones on the right.

Next, I adjusted the drag-and-drop settings to fit my needs. I decided to increase the number of attempts to three, given the number of steps in my process and the possibility for error.

For my quiz, I decided to check all the options available, which would change the order of appearance of my drag items so they would not appear in numerical order and make the drop target options snap to center.

Remember, these options all come down to personal preference. There is no right or wrong choice.

5. Set Up Feedback Layers

At this point, I changed the layout of my feedback master slides so the feedback would appear in the white space at the bottom of my slide instead of in the default pop-up.

I could’ve stopped here, but I decided to add a solution layer, so learners who weren’t able to get the correct answer after three attempts could still see it. I started by adding a new layer to my slide with the visuals of the process, then changed the default “Continue” button on the incorrect layer to a solution button by updating the text and changing the trigger to show the solution layer.

Then I hid the objects on the base layer by adjusting the layer properties, so my drag items would no longer be visible.

Finally, I added two buttons to my solution layer: Start Over and Close, with corresponding triggers. That way, learners can study the process and try again if they’d like.

Want to make your own freeform drag-and-drop quiz, but don’t have Articulate software? Download a free trial, and come back to E-Learning Heroes regularly for more helpful advice on everything related to e-learning.